A Grand Confluence of Splendor and Tradition: Vibrant Launch of Teej Mahotsav 2025 in Jaipur
Jaipur (Rajasthan) : In celebration of the vibrant women-centric festival of Teej, the Rajasthan Tourism Department kicked off the two-day Teej Mahotsav 2025 with grandeur on Sunday. The first day witnessed the traditional procession of Teej Mata, with enthusiastic participation from a large number of women, local residents, dignitaries, and domestic and international tourists.
At Chhoti Chaupad, a grand ceremonial platform was set up where Governor Haribhau Bagde, Speaker of the Assembly Vasudev Devnani, Deputy Chief Minister and Minister of Tourism, Art, and Culture Diya Kumari, Uttarakhand Tourism Minister Satpal Maharaj, and other dignitaries graced the occasion. For the first time, Diya Kumari performed the grand aarti of Teej Mata from the main stage.
A Royal Cultural Parade
The majestic procession of Teej Mata began from the Janani Deorhi of the City Palace, passing through Tripolia Gate, Chhoti Chaupad, Chaugan Stadium, and culminating at Tal Katora Poundrik Park. The city streets came alive with decorated horses and carriages, elephants, camels, bulls, traditional Rajasthani tableaux, musical bands, shehnai and nagara ensembles, presenting a regal cultural spectacle.
Nearly 200 folk artists showcased the diverse cultural richness of Rajasthan. Highlights included Banwarilal Jat’s Kachhi Ghodi dance, Shekhawati’s Gair dance, Bahurupiya artists impersonating saints like Narad, Krishna, and Shiva, enchanting Kalbelia dancers, mesmerizing Chari dance, powerful Hela Khyal performances, and the internationally acclaimed puppeteer Raju Bhat who brought his puppets to life with magical precision.
Artists from Nagaur, led by Tejpal Nagauri, added flair with their Kachhi Ghodi and Bankya Vadan performances. The sight of royal elephants, bulls adorned in red fabric, and a line of camels ridden by men in traditional attire wielding swords paid tribute to Rajasthan’s warrior heritage. The atmosphere resonated with peacock dances and the thunder of traditional drums, followed by decorated royal horses, carriages, and a majestic parade of elephants.
The moment of awe arrived as Teej Mata’s royal chariot emerged through the Tripolia Gate in a bright red carriage, accompanied by a musical band. The crowd erupted in cheers and chants of devotion, creating a spiritually charged atmosphere on both sides of the street.
Women-Led Procession Stole the Show
A special highlight was the women’s tableau, where women dressed in vibrant Leheriya sarees danced gracefully with Kalash balanced on their heads. This not only captivated the audience but also vividly brought Rajasthan’s deep-rooted traditions to life. The puja of Teej Mata was conducted by female priests, symbolizing women empowerment.
Wide-Scale Coverage and Global Reach
The colorful celebration, steeped in local emotions and tradition, was broadcast live on various media channels and displayed on around 200 screens across Rajasthan with the help of DOIT, ensuring massive outreach. The event also saw participation from journalists, media professionals, and social media influencers.
Teej Mahotsav 2025 once again proved that Rajasthan’s tradition, colors, and folk art are a source of global attraction. The celebration served as a magnificent platform for cultural expression, women empowerment, and community unity.
This festival is not only an effort to preserve the cultural heritage of the state but also a significant step in promoting tourism and showcasing the rich cultural legacy of Rajasthan to the world.